YouTube TV’s upcoming customizable Multiview is a game-changer

For a while now, YouTube TV’s multiview feature has been a handy way to keep tabs on a few pre-selected channels at once, especially during big sporting events. But I’d wager that many of you – like myself – have been really wanting the ability to build our own multiview lineup based on the things you want in that split-screen setup. Well, the wait is nearly over…sort of. YouTube TV is currently testing customizable multiviews, and it’s will be an incredibly useful feature addition for all sorts of viewers.

The idea is simple enough; subscribers will soon be able to select up to four different channels to watch simultaneously on a single screen. And right now, YouTube TV is expanding this to include a variety of select non-sports content too, with plans to eventually add even more channels into the mix.

Sure, NFL Sunday Ticket and March Madness saw some great preset multiview options, but imagine the possibilities with this new custom option. You will be able to manually pick the specific games you want to follow across different leagues or conferences, all on one screen. Say you want to keep an eye on a less-popular matchup that wouldn’t normally make a preset bundle; now you can add that game into the mix.

Also consider those times when major breaking news events are going on (think election nights, big court proceedings, or natural disasters) and how helpful it would be to have the ability to monitor multiple news outlets simultaneously. Instead of frantically flipping channels or juggling multiple devices, you’ll soon be able to create your own custom news dashboard to get different perspectives, see how various networks are covering events, and stay informed without missing a beat.

Right now, it looks like this heavily-anticipated feature is rolling out gradually, so if you don’t see the option to build your own multiview right away, hang tight. Google has indicated it has already started appearing for select members and will continue a slow roll-out over the coming months. As an aside, YouTube TV is also planning an “Always-On” multiview that will feature a pre-set combination of local ABC, CBS, FOX, and NBC channels that should be rolling out separately from the custom multiviews and could arrive even sooner, so be on the lookout!